Let's dive into the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe specs, guys! If you're considering buying one of these reliable SUVs or just curious about its capabilities, this is the place to be. We're going to cover everything from engine options and performance to dimensions, safety features, and even some common issues to watch out for. So, buckle up and get ready for a comprehensive look at the 2004 Santa Fe. It's essential to have all the facts before making any decisions, whether you're buying, selling, or simply maintaining your vehicle. With the right information, you can ensure that your Santa Fe continues to serve you well for years to come. This SUV has a reputation for being a solid and dependable choice, and knowing its specifications will help you appreciate its strengths and address any potential weaknesses.

Understanding the engine options and performance of the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe is crucial. In 2004, the Santa Fe offered two main engine choices: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The 2.4-liter engine was the base option, providing around 138 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. While it was adequate for daily commuting and city driving, it might feel a bit underpowered when fully loaded or on steep inclines. The fuel economy for this engine was reasonable, typically around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. On the other hand, the 3.5-liter V6 engine delivered a more robust performance, producing approximately 200 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. This engine made the Santa Fe more capable for towing and provided better acceleration, making it a preferable choice for those who frequently carry passengers or cargo. The fuel economy for the V6 was slightly lower, averaging around 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Both engines were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, which was known for its reliability and smooth shifting. However, some drivers found the transmission to be somewhat dated compared to newer models with more gears. The Santa Fe's suspension system was designed for comfort, offering a smooth ride on most road surfaces. It featured an independent front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, which helped to absorb bumps and provide stable handling. While it wasn't designed for off-road adventures, the Santa Fe could handle light off-road conditions with its available all-wheel-drive system. The all-wheel-drive system automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels, providing added traction in slippery conditions. This feature was particularly useful for drivers in areas with snow or rain. Overall, the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a balance of performance, comfort, and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for families and individuals alike.

Dimensions and Capacities

Knowing the dimensions and capacities of the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe is key for practical use. This mid-size SUV offers a comfortable interior and ample cargo space, making it suitable for families and those who need to haul gear. The overall length of the 2004 Santa Fe is approximately 177 inches, with a width of around 72 inches and a height of about 67 inches. These dimensions make it easy to maneuver in city traffic and park in tight spaces. Inside, the Santa Fe provides seating for up to five passengers. The front seats are spacious and comfortable, offering plenty of legroom and headroom. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate three adults, although taller passengers might find the legroom a bit limited on longer trips. The cargo area behind the rear seats offers around 30 cubic feet of space, which is sufficient for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo capacity expands to approximately 78 cubic feet, providing ample room for larger items. The Santa Fe also features several storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a glove box, door pockets, and a center console, making it easy to keep your belongings organized. The fuel tank capacity is around 17 gallons, which provides a decent driving range, especially on highway trips. The towing capacity of the 2004 Santa Fe varies depending on the engine. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine can tow up to 1,500 pounds, while the 3.5-liter V6 engine can tow up to 2,000 pounds. This makes it suitable for towing small trailers, boats, or recreational vehicles. The Santa Fe's ground clearance is around 8 inches, which allows it to handle rough roads and minor off-road conditions without scraping the undercarriage. The turning radius is approximately 39 feet, which makes it relatively easy to make U-turns and navigate tight spaces. Overall, the dimensions and capacities of the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe make it a versatile and practical SUV for a variety of needs.

Interior and Exterior Features

Let's talk about the interior and exterior features of the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe. On the inside, you'll find a functional and comfortable cabin designed with practicality in mind. The base models typically came with cloth upholstery, while higher trims offered leather seats for a more luxurious feel. The dashboard layout is straightforward and easy to navigate, with clearly labeled controls for the audio system, climate control, and other functions. Standard features included air conditioning, a CD player, and power windows and locks. Upgraded models might include features like a sunroof, heated seats, and a premium audio system. The seats are generally comfortable, providing adequate support for long drives. The interior trim is mostly plastic, but it's durable and easy to clean. One of the standout features of the Santa Fe's interior is its spaciousness. There's plenty of room for both passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families or anyone who needs to haul a lot of gear. On the outside, the 2004 Santa Fe has a simple yet attractive design. It features a rounded body shape with a chrome grille and stylish headlights. The base models came with steel wheels, while higher trims offered alloy wheels for a more upscale look. Standard exterior features included roof rails, which add to the vehicle's versatility and allow you to carry extra cargo. The Santa Fe also came with body-colored bumpers and side mirrors, giving it a cohesive and polished appearance. The available colors ranged from classic neutrals like black and silver to more vibrant options like red and blue. The overall design of the 2004 Santa Fe is understated but functional, making it a practical and reliable choice for everyday use. While it may not turn heads with its styling, it offers a comfortable and spacious interior, a smooth ride, and a range of features that make it a great value for the money. Whether you're commuting to work or taking a road trip with the family, the Santa Fe provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

Safety Features

Discussing the safety features of the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe is paramount, guys. Your safety and the safety of your passengers should always be a top priority. The 2004 Santa Fe came equipped with a range of safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Standard safety features included driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags, and anti-lock brakes (ABS). The airbags are designed to deploy in the event of a moderate to severe frontal or side impact, providing cushioning and reducing the risk of injury. The ABS system helps prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control and avoid skidding. In addition to these standard features, the Santa Fe also offered optional features such as traction control and electronic stability control. Traction control helps prevent wheel spin on slippery surfaces, improving traction and stability. Electronic stability control helps prevent the vehicle from skidding or losing control by automatically applying the brakes to individual wheels. The 2004 Santa Fe also features a reinforced steel frame, which is designed to absorb and distribute impact energy in the event of a collision. The frame is engineered to protect the passenger compartment and reduce the risk of injury. The Santa Fe also comes with seatbelts for all seating positions, which are essential for preventing injuries in a crash. It's important to always wear your seatbelt, regardless of how short the trip is. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted crash tests on the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe. The Santa Fe received good ratings in these tests, indicating that it provides a reasonable level of protection in the event of a collision. However, it's important to note that no vehicle can guarantee complete safety in a crash. The best way to stay safe on the road is to drive defensively, follow traffic laws, and avoid distractions. Overall, the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a decent range of safety features that can help protect you and your passengers in the event of a collision. While it may not have all the advanced safety technologies found in newer vehicles, it provides a solid foundation of safety features that can help reduce the risk of injury.

Common Issues and Maintenance

Understanding the common issues and maintenance needs of the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe can save you headaches down the road. Like any vehicle, the 2004 Santa Fe is prone to certain problems and requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. One of the most common issues reported by owners is problems with the automatic transmission. Symptoms of transmission problems can include slipping gears, rough shifting, and delayed engagement. In some cases, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced. Another common issue is problems with the engine. Some owners have reported issues with the engine stalling, misfiring, or overheating. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty sensors, worn spark plugs, or a clogged fuel filter. Electrical problems are also relatively common in the 2004 Santa Fe. Some owners have reported issues with the power windows, door locks, and audio system. These problems can be caused by faulty wiring, damaged switches, or a blown fuse. In addition to these specific issues, the 2004 Santa Fe also requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. This includes changing the oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, replacing the air filter and fuel filter as needed, and inspecting the brakes and tires regularly. It's also important to have the timing belt replaced every 60,000 to 90,000 miles to prevent engine damage. To minimize the risk of problems, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and address any issues promptly. Regular maintenance can help prevent small problems from turning into larger, more expensive ones. It's also a good idea to keep an eye out for any warning signs, such as unusual noises, vibrations, or fluid leaks. If you notice anything unusual, take your Santa Fe to a qualified mechanic for inspection and repair. By being proactive and taking good care of your 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe, you can help ensure that it continues to provide reliable transportation for years to come.

Is the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe a Good Choice?

So, is the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe a good choice? Let's break it down. This SUV has a lot to offer, but it's not without its drawbacks. On the positive side, the 2004 Santa Fe is known for its reliability and affordability. It's a practical and spacious vehicle that's well-suited for families and individuals who need to haul cargo. The available V6 engine provides decent power and performance, and the all-wheel-drive system offers added traction in slippery conditions. The Santa Fe also comes with a range of safety features, including airbags and anti-lock brakes, which can help protect occupants in the event of a collision. However, there are also some potential downsides to consider. The 2004 Santa Fe is an older vehicle, so it may require more maintenance and repairs than a newer model. Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, engine, and electrical system. The fuel economy is also not as good as some newer SUVs, especially with the V6 engine. Additionally, the interior and exterior styling of the 2004 Santa Fe may not appeal to everyone. It's a functional and practical design, but it's not particularly stylish or modern. Ultimately, whether or not the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe is a good choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for an affordable and reliable SUV that's good on space, and you're willing to accept the potential for maintenance and repairs, then it could be a good option. However, if you prioritize fuel economy, modern styling, and advanced features, you may want to consider a newer vehicle. Before making a decision, it's a good idea to test drive a 2004 Santa Fe and have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. This will give you a better idea of its overall condition and help you identify any potential problems. Also, be sure to research the vehicle's history and check for any recalls or service bulletins. By doing your homework, you can make an informed decision and choose the right vehicle for your needs.

In conclusion, understanding the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe specs provides valuable insight into its capabilities and potential ownership experience. By considering factors such as engine performance, dimensions, features, safety, and maintenance, you can make an informed decision about whether this SUV is the right fit for you. Remember to weigh the pros and cons and do your research before making a purchase.